DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2016.v04i08.023

Pages: 2840-2842

The first step in any quality approach process is identifying and studying the process in detail as what, how, when and by whom the process is carried on. Time-Motion study helps in studying the process by observing the process in person and recording the events to identify unnecessary steps and eliminate or reduce these steps for improving the process. The study aims to improve sample collection process in Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences using Time-Motion study approach. The present study is an observational cross sectional study done by trained volunteers who personally follow the patient from entry till exit in sample collection room in the month of July, 2016. Results showed that the whole process of sample collection involved 4 operations, 5 transports and 3 delays. Total distance travelled was 55m and total time spent for process was 38 minutes 5 seconds (operation – 10 minutes 10 seconds and delays – 28 minutes) by the patient during the process. Total time spent can be reduced to 15-20 minutes by implementing bar-coding, creation of toilet facilities nearby, planning of phlebotomists as per patient flow, etc.